Applying Bond Graphs for Design Representation of Mechatronic Products

Bond graphs are a domain-independent graphical description of dynamic behavior of physical systems. It is particularly suited for the concurrent design of multidisciplinary systems (including mechanical, electrical, hydraulic or pneumatic components). In this paper, we present our work on the conceptual design representation using bond graphs methodology to support the early stage of product development, especially the conceptual design of mechatronic products. Following the introduction of the fundamental concepts, a advanced notion so called activation is given to present signal systems (e.g. feedback controlled systems). Finally, a controlled DC motor driven system example is used to illustrate the process of model building and analysis of interdisciplinary systems based on bond graphs.